Russian Tour Operators Report No Travelers in Unrest-Hit Jalisco

MOSCOW, Feb 23 – The Mexican state of Jalisco and its capital, Guadalajara, are seeing virtually no Russian tourists, according to the Association of Tour Operators (ATOR). The statement follows days of violence and blockades in the region after a military operation resulted in the death of a major cartel leader.

ATOR clarified that Guadalajara features in the itineraries of only a handful of specialized tour programs sold in Russia. Recent sales for these tours have been nonexistent, the association said, adding that there are currently no clients from its member companies in the area.

The unrest began after Mexican defense officials reported the death of Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, during his transport to Mexico City. In the aftermath, dozens of cities across at least eight states experienced car burnings, roadblocks, and attacks on security forces.

Despite the instability in Jalisco, ATOR noted that Russian tourists vacationing elsewhere in Mexico have not lodged complaints. Tours in other regions are proceeding as scheduled, with no reported disruptions to flights or requests for early returns. The association's data suggests the impact of the violence on Russian travelers is confined to the affected state.